The influence that Amapiano has created during its rise is actually quite phenomenal if you think about it. The genre has been rocking the South African streets for just over 3 years now and it seems to be filtering into other genres too. Most notably South African Hip Hop music. However the sound has also spread throughout the rest of Africa. Here are a few examples:
Dr Peppa ft. LucasRaps, Chang Cello & Riky Rick — What it is
This is practically a hip hop joint because its straight up rapping. The song was produced by Tyler ICU, who mainly does Amapiano tracks. As soon as the track begins you immediately start jamming to it, once you hear the familiar trumpet and log drum (typically you’d expect to hear an 808) playing in the background, it feels like a hit.
Riky Rick ft Focalistic & Tyler ICU— UNGAZINCISHI
Another Tyler ICU production! This jam reminded me of the Kwaito days because the whole essence of the song gave me township vibes. Riky’s flow gives you Kwaito feels but the main distinguisher is the log drum accompanying the base. The visuals also do the video justice.
Costa Titch ft Riky Rick & DJ Maphorisa — Areyeng
Honestly, this one wasn’t too much of a surprise considering Costa Titch likes making bangers a.k.a turn up music. And currently Amapiano is banging in the streets. The common theme in some of these hip hop tracks is their use of the Amapiano log drum which seems to be the cherry on top to an already good song.
A.K.A ft Riky Rick & DJ Tira — F.R.E.E
A.K.A is known for making classics, his catalogue is matched only by a few Hip Hop artists and this jam is a whole summer vibe. What makes this particular song stand out is because of 2 reasons. Firstly, there’s piano keys that are playing in the background which is what we would normally expect on a slow tempo Amapiano jam. Secondly, when the song starts it reminds me of MC Lyte’s “Cold rock a party”, that’s probably also because of A.K.A’s first two lines recite from the original song.
Khuli Chana ft Tyler ICU, Sthino le Thwenny & Lady Du – Buyile
The Motswako Originator himself had to jump on the Amapiano train too. Khuli Chana is a rapper, a lyrical, bar for bar rapper so this was somewhat of a shock however modern day artists have to evolve right? Here he features South African Hip Hop duo Sthino Le Thwenny, Amapiano queen Lady Du and producer Tyler ICU. Have a listen for yourself, you won’t be disappointed.
Rema — Woman
One thing I’ve learnt over the years as we discover new sounds and genres is that they will travel. Similar to how Gqom music reached other African countries and garnered attention on an international stage (eg. Black Panther soundtrack album). The latest to use the Amapiano influence is Nigerian wonderkid, Rema. Not only is the song “Woman” great but infusing the Amapiano trumpet in the background adds a nice texture to an already up tempo Naija banger.
